Is Costume Jewelry the Same as Fashion Jewelry?

The great thing about costume jewelry is that you can find it just about anywhere jewelry, clothing, and women’s accessories are sold. But what is the difference between costume jewelry, fashion jewelry, or handmade jewelry? If you are a professional artisan, I believe that you would have a bone to pick with anyone who classified handmade jewelry as costume jewelry. Yes, it is true that some handmade jewelry is designed to be costume jewelry, but the artisan’s intention for most handmade jewelry pieces are not for the purpose of costume jewelry.

But most people would agree that fashion jewelry is synonymous with costume jewelry. Depending on where you shop, you can spend between $5.00 and $300.00 for a typical costume jewelry piece. And depending on the distance, it is sometimes difficult for the naked eye to spot the difference between genuine fine jewelry and costume jewelry. But I don’t want to confuse the jewelry with the person. I know many people (myself included) who own and wear a blend of fine jewelry and costume jewelry. Given that my profession does not require a formal dress code, I tend to buy more costume jewelry because it fits with my wardrobe. But many of my friends and family have jobs that require a formal attire. So they tend to purchase more fine jewelry than I do. However, due to budget constraints, many of them still wear costume jewelry. But they make sure that it is classy and does not look cheap.

So how does one classify costume jewelry? I would have to say that it is in the same family as fashion jewelry; can be handmade if that is the intention of the artisan; and looks good enough to be real but very affordable so that the masses can buy it. So treat yourself to a new ring, necklace, or silver bangle bracelet. And if it’s a costume jewelry piece, you may be able to afford more than one.